Should I engage the plunge base when stored

[Ellery Becnel]

I built a box for my router combo kit. Not realizing that it was in the plunged depth mode when I took the
measurements. My concern is that if I store it in its max depth engaged mode, it will weaken the springs
over time. I have searched the net, and found nothing. So now I am asking the experts. Does it matter?
I can use the box for another tool. Thanks for everyone's input.


Ellery Becnel

[Rich Engelhardt]

Springs are under the same stress whether they are compressed or uncompressed....so...store away w/out any fear.

Please don't ask me to explain why, I'm just restating what I learned about how to store things like auto knives (aka:switchblades) and magazines.

What wears out springs is going from one state to another.

[Jim Matthews]

Proper lubrication should be considered.

If you've got moving parts and a damp environment,
rust is inevitable. If you have the original box
and some desiccant packs (available from Lee Valley)
that should help keep things dry.

If you're stuck, get a large ziploc bag and mist in a little WD40
before sealing everything inside.

[pat warner]

In fact, when at rest, given no cutter, always plunge to max depth and lock.
Keeps the plunge posts oil-wet and protected from impact.

[Bill White]

Springs "store" energy. Won't hurt at all.
Bill

[Mike Cutler]

Young's Modulus, and Hooke's Law, say you're good to go. Either way it's stored, none of us will live long enough to see the difference.

It sounds like and interesting storage unit. Would you mind posting a pic? I'm always looking for more efficient ways to store tools and accessories.

[Ellery Becnel]

Thanks everyone. I will post the pics . I want to arrange some internal partitions to keep things from rolling around.

Ellery Becnel

[johnny means]

I've seen a couple of the big Porter-Cable plunge routers break when they unexpectedly "unplunged". For this reason, I store mine in the extended state.